MS in USA application process can be overwhelming and cumbersome. So, here we have tried to simplify it for you so that you can keep a tab on what’s happening.
GRE/TOEFL
Take by end of Aug so that you have enough time to retake if necessary
Retake GRE if required by end of Sep (need 21 days between reattempts)
Shortlist Schools
by end of Sep – mid Oct. Here’s full post on how to shortlist schools.
Email Professors
Drop emails to relevant Professors you are interested to work with (especially for people interested in research) by mid of Oct.
Apply for WES
If any of your shortlisted schools require a WES evaluation, apply for it by the end of Oct since it can take a month or more to get their results.
Check for scholarships
There are some third party scholarships available for MS applicants. Search these by end of Oct (so that you can apply by their stated deadlines)
Order transcripts
from your undergraduate college by end of Oct
Finalize SOP, essays and LORs
by mid Nov
Fill the application online and send application packets where required
by end of Nov – mid Dec
Follow up on the status of your applications
and if the required material has been received by the schools in Jan. Resend if anything is amiss
Receive results
by end of Mar-Apr
Submit financial docs for I-20
by end of Apr
Finalize your school and apply for education loan
by May
Appear for visa interview
by end of June
Arrive on the campus
by Aug (2 weeks earlier if you need to look for funding on campus)
That’s it – it is not as cumbersome if you know what to expect. Save this infographic for a quick reminder.
For personalised assistance for your applications, check our counseling packages.
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